President William Ruto on Friday officially launched the Rironi–Mau Summit Road and the Nairobi–Maai Mahiu–Naivasha road projects, describing them as transformative ventures set to modernize Kenya’s transport network, cut travel times, and strengthen regional trade.
Speaking at the launch, President Ruto said the projects go beyond construction.
“This project we launch today is more than a highway; it’s a gateway to prosperity, unity, and transformation. It positions Kenya as a leader in innovative financing, in modern transport, in public-private partnerships, and in the audacity to think big when the world expects us to think small,” he said.
The Rironi–Mau Summit corridor stretches 175 kilometers, while the Nairobi–Maai Mahiu–Naivasha section covers 58 kilometers. Both roads are being built under a world-class Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with a total investment exceeding Sh170 billion.
An aerial view of a section of the Rironi-Mau Summit Road on November 28, 2025. PHOTO/PCSPresident Ruto explained that the PPP approach allows the government to deliver major infrastructure without straining national finances or creating unsustainable debt.
He highlighted that the upgraded routes will accommodate heavy commercial traffic, featuring modern interchanges, truck laybys, pedestrian bridges, intelligent transport systems, enhanced lighting, safety barriers, and robust drainage networks.
The Nairobi–Maai Mahiu–Naivasha road is designed to handle steep slopes and high cargo volumes, connecting seamlessly to the Naivasha Inland Container Depot and the expanding industrial corridor.
President William Ruto arriving in Nakuru County to launch the dualling of the Rironi–Nakuru–Mau Summit Road in Kamandura, Kiambu County on November 28, 2025. PHOTO/PCSThe President also emphasized the project’s role in creating employment and skills opportunities for young Kenyans.
“It will not only construct roads, but careers and futures, with local content leading and Kenyan businesses at the centre. We also welcome the expertise of our Chinese partners, whose technology and experience strengthen these projects while building capacity within our own workforce,” he said.
In addition, President Ruto outlined broader infrastructure initiatives, including new dual-carriageway corridors, airport and port expansions, and extensions to the Standard Gauge Railway network.
President William Ruto is joined by an official KeNHA in Nakuru County as they look at the map of the Rironi–Nakuru–Mau Summit Road in Kamandura, Kiambu County on November 28, 2025. PHOTO/PCSHe announced plans for a National Infrastructure Fund and a Sovereign Wealth Fund to finance these projects sustainably, reducing reliance on borrowing and building long-term national wealth.
“This is our moment to rise from the ordinary, to step away from the average, to leave mediocrity behind, and to walk confidently and decisively into excellence,” President Ruto said. “Together, we are laying the foundations of a prosperous, connected, and confident nation.”
The launch marks a significant step in Kenya’s strategy to modernize its transport infrastructure, facilitate trade, and promote inclusive economic growth for its citizens.
The commissioning plaque for the launch of the dualling of the Rironi–Nakuru–Mau Summit Road in Kamandura, Kiambu County, on November 28, 2025 PHOTO/PCS
